OG Racing

Performance Friction Brakes Pads for Miatas

2011-04-06T11:47:00.004-04:00

We had a few requests from our Spec Miata customers for some variety in Performance Friction's compound offerings. Up until now, Performance Friction only offered pads for the front and rear of Spec 1.6 & 1.8 Miatas in the 97 compound. Nothing necessarily wrong with that - the 97 is a great low-wearing compound with good modulation and a nice, flat torque curve.

But what if you're looking for a bit more stopping power? Well it took a bit of a commitment from us, but we now have the exclusive on the popular new 06 compound for both the front and rear of Spec Miatas. When compared to the 97 compound, 06's higher bite and torque in the beginning of the stop, and from Performance Frictions description:

Excellent release and control with very low wear. Very low abraded disc wear with a “powdery type” transfer layer. 06 pads are an excellent alternative to other brands of endurance compounds but with much higher performance. Excellent for club racing type shapes as well in OE brake calipers where ABS is used.

Available April/May 2011.

Order online: PERFORMANCE-FRICTION-06-COMPOUND-RACING-BRAKE-PADS-FOR-SPEC-MIATA

Hans Sport 2 Device

2011-03-31T14:36:00.003-04:00

Priced at $645, the Sport II is the lightest ever Sports Series HANS Device. It follows in the tradition of the Sport I by making the same protection enjoyed by champions in major series around the world available at a reasonable price.

"Too often racers think it’s only the guys who go 200 miles per hour who need a head restraint,” said Gary Milgrom, vice president of HANS Performance Products. “Our Sport Series is designed to make sure the weekend warrior can get the same protection as Jimmie Johnson, Larry Dixon or Dario Franchitti at an affordable price."

The curved back also offers a lower profile making it less likely to catch on the car when entering/exiting.

Available Spring 2011 - that should mean in just a few weeks!

So, We Have This Suit....

2010-10-26T12:16:00.004-04:00

Funny story - See, we had been waiting on the newest Sparco Pro Cup 10 suit to arrive from Sparco. And as anyone who's anyone knows, the single identifying feature of the Cup suit is that it has Boot Cut pant legs. Well, our initial shipment from Sparco came in - and the pant legs had traditional racing cuffs.

In typical OG Racing style, we brokered a deal with Sparco and took the entire production line at a reduced cost (actually, it was more Sparco's savvy salesmenship that convinced us to take the entire line - what can I say, We're easy). But that was before we thought about what to call it. Since Cup suits have Boot Cut legs, we couldn't call it that. Then how about calling it the Sponsor, since the styling is pretty much identical? Nope - couldn't do that neither since the Sponsor has always been a higher level suit.

After months of tossing names back and forth (the usual -working with Manhattan Ad firms, calling celebrities, checking trademarks) it was our in-house-team that came up with the name for the suit you'll never forget!

Introducing The OG Racing Special!

This suit offers the looks of the popular Sparco Sponsor suit, but is a 2-layer design using slightly heavier fabric from the Sprint Suits (about 60 g/sqm heavier). Box quilted construction and articulated shoulders offer all the comfort of Sparco's nicest suits. The 2-layer Nomex construction is both FIA and SFI 3.2a/5 rated, meeting all requirements for wheel-to-wheel racing. Best of all, the OG Racing Special it does away with those funky boot-cut legs that lesser suits have, and replaces them with nice, comfortable traditional elastic cuffs!

The nearest comparable suit from Sparco (the Pro Cup X) retails for $599. Only at OG Racing, the OG Racing Special is available for purchase for only $499. Limited sizes and colors in stock now!

See more info on the OG Racing Special - Click Here!

OG Racing Now Equipped to Service SPA Fire Systems

2010-10-25T13:26:00.005-04:00

This may be old news to some, but OG Racing is equipped and certified to fully service and refill SPA AFFF fire bottles.

Did you know that SPA recommends an inspection and replacement of AFFF every 2 years (or after you accidentally discharge it - whichever comes first!)

Our price for inspection, and refill of a 4-Liter, Mechanical Bottle (like what is used on the popular $325 Mechanical System) is only $99.00. This includes all labor costs and 4L of fresh AFFF.

Electrical systems require additional parts at an added cost, especially if the firing head has been detonated.

Call us at 1-800-934-9112 for further instructions on sending us your SPA Fire Bottle.

New Sparco Seats

2010-10-14T17:57:00.002-04:00

2 new Sparco Competition seats showed up recently. Once again, Sparco released these seats in their 2009 catalogs, but only got around to shipping them to us now. So, with further ado:

Sparco Rev Plus:

This is pretty much the same Rev Plus seat as we've had since 2007 or so. The big (and only) change is the cover design. In person, it's not as bad as we first opinioned when we saw the pictures 2 years ago. The grey contrasting looks rather nice, and a thick grey trim along the edges really makes this seat stand out. At this time, we only have 1 in black - not sure if they're transferring this to the other color options. Perhaps this is the new look Sparco is aiming for?

Sparco Pro 2000 Plus:

This is a seat we've been waiting on for a while - a plus-sized version of the ever-so-popular Pro 2000 seat. They've added a good 2-inches in width to the standard design (sort of like the Evo line of seats). Is a Pro 2000 3/XL in the works? Don't hold your breath.

Bell SA2010 Helmets are here!

2010-10-11T15:41:00.002-04:00

Wasn't really expecting back-to-back shipments from both of our most popular helmet manufacturers, but some models of the Bell SA2010 helmets just showed up in our warehouse.

Some interesting details we're just finding out:

When Bell says "Flat Black", they actually mean a Rubberized Flat Black, sort of like the extremely popular finish that HJC has been applying to their line of helmets.

And, we saw it listed in their preview catalog. And it was in their price-sheet. But we also thought that maybe it was some sort of typo. It wasn't. The Bell Sport and Mag Sport helmets are available in Orange:

We'll keep posting more helmet models as they come in. It's quickly becoming apparent to us how many changes the helmet manufacturers are making in their helmets with this Snell rating change.

HJC AR-10 SA2010 Helmets

2010-10-11T11:43:00.005-04:00

The newest Snell rated helmets (SA2010) are a bit of a mystery this year. None were available for preview at the PRI show last year (since the rating had not been released at the time). And we knew the changes would be a bit more significant from the last rating change.

So it's especially nice to see these new helmets as they roll in - this morning we just took delivery of the HJC AR10-II helmets! Well, actually, funny-story. Turns out we've had these helmets for a couple months now - our last batch of AR10 helmets were all actually AR10-II helmets. But since the new stickers were not yet available, HJC sold them as the old helmet. You heard it here - if you buy one of our Sale Priced HJC AR-10 SA2005 Helmets, you might just receive the newest design, albeit with an SA2005 sticker on the inside.

Anyways, without further ado, here's the new AR10. See if you can spot the differences!

AR10-II (SA2010)

AR10 (SA2005)

More info on the SA2010 HJC AR10 Helmet Here. Most sizes and colors are in stock now!

What is the SAH2010 Rating?

2010-10-07T11:56:00.003-04:00

We're all expecting to see the new Snell SA2010 ratings on helmets and day now. What may catch you off guard is an all new rating - SAH2010. This rating is an addendum to the SA2010 rating. In other words, when you look inside your brand new helmet, you will see one or the other (if you see neither, you should contact your dealer since you just got burned!) Since everyone is bound to ask, Yes, an SAH2010 helmet can be used anywhere an SA2010 helmet is allowed. But what exactly is the SAH2010 rating?

The extra "H" indicates FHR (frontal head restraint) capability. We'll say it stands for "H"ead and Neck Restraint just so we avoid any further conspiracy theories regarding that particular Head & Neck Restraint manufacturer. Snell's mandate applies to helmets submitted that are supplied with built-in Hans Device connection points - two sets of M6 threads where the device anchors are typically installed. Due to an FIA homologation, many new helmets are manufactured with such terminals pre-installed.

The Snell Foundation verifies the location of the mounting points and tests the submitted helmet's pre-installed fittings for strength - I won't get into details regarding how the tests are performed (you can read up on that info by viewing the entire addendum via the link below).

Note that the device anchors are NOT pre-installed - only the M6 mounting points that the anchors attach to are built into the SAH2010 rated helmet.

Is this rating the answer to a question nobody ever asked? In our opinion, No. We've seen some attempts at Hans Compatible devices with pre-installed nutserts. Most of them were pretty shady in quality. It is of our opinion that if a Hans "install-point" is built into the helmet, it should be able to withstand the forces that an accident may create. And now, in this era of fake Hans Anchors, and false certifications, we have a way to prove that our helmets will perform the way we hope they will in the off-chance that we ever need to use it!

Detailed information for the SAH2010 Certification can be found here. For more information regarding this and other Snell Ratings, please visit the Snell Foundation's website at: http://www.smf.org

Are You Waiting For An SA2010 Helmet?

2010-10-06T10:23:00.006-04:00

The latest SA2010 certification from Snell will be the 5th certification change that OG Racing has had the "honor" of handling. Once every five years, we get the privilege of getting rid of perfectly good helmets from our shelves and ordering tens of thousands of dollars of new helmets with the freshest Snell rating. This must be what grocery stores go through on a daily basis in the produce department!

This being the fifth time we've done this, we're once again visiting the question of "Do I need the newest rating?" Beyond the need to purchase the latest and greatest helmet safety standard - a need that I can't personally argue with as we (OG Racing) understand the need for the best in safety gear - lets examine the well known facts regarding the newest certification and what it means to the customer.

In speaking with most customers, there is only one real line of reasoning in a helmet purchase - buying an SA2010 helmet most likely guarantees the ability to keep and use that helmet through 2020. This is in contrast to purchasing an SA2005 helmet that can only be used through 2015.

True, from a financial standpoint, this makes some sense. The user only needs to buy ONE helmet in the 10 year period, whereas an SA2005 purchaser would have to buy TWO helmets to get through 2020. But let's examine this a little closer, using the Bell BR1 Helmet as an example. The SA2010 BR1 (arriving any day now) will cost $439.95. Right now, the SA2005 BR1 is on sale for $269.00. We can assume that in 2015, the SA2010 BR1 will go on sale for about $279.00 when using the same markdowns. So, buying ONE SA2010 helmet to use for 10 years will cost $439.95 VS buying TWO helmets for the same 10 year period at $548.00. A savings of $108.05 by purchasing the latest rating and using it for 10 years.

(Before I go any further, I'll take a quick perspective from a business standpoint, since yes, we are here to sell helmets. From a profit standpoint, I would much rather sell you, the customer, an SA2010 helmet at full-price, then an SA2005 helmet at a steep discount. There - I said it.)

Now for the safety argument: A racing helmet is composed of a hard shell covering an interior lined with padding. Both are fiberglass/kevlar/carbon, or some composite form of it. Over time, this will deteriorate in strength - this deterioration is multiplied by dirt and the surrounding environment (extreme heat/cold, sunlight, moisture, etc.) The helmet is actually becoming weaker, a fact that cannot be avoided unless you wrap it up in a bag and never use it! This is one of the reasons for the dreaded Snell expiration - although a 10+ year old helmet may still look like a helmet, there is no way to prove it is still as strong as a helmet should be.

Beyond the safety of the helmet, my favorite argument lies in 2 of the words in the above paragraph - dirt and moisture. As we all know, a helmet is near impossible to clean. You can't throw it in the wash, and most don't come with removable lining. Even if it were easy to clean, I know first-hand most of us don't do so! We take our wet, soggy helmets and throw them into a bag in the back corner of the garage/trailer as soon as we finished with our mid-July event. You know that helmet stink? Or the greasy, dirty feeling you get from handling your helmet? Yep - that's most likely mold. And bacteria. And plain, old sweat.

I personally have an SA2000 helmet in my closet I'll be getting rid of in the near future. I would still wear it - it's an open-face Bell Mag 4 that I used maybe once or twice a year for autocross. In my opinion, it's still very clean and looks nearly new. Similarly, if you're only attending a few events a year, and keep very good care of your stuff, I would say that there is no reason NOT to buy an SA2010 this year and use it until 2020 (and save some money in the process by using the One-Helmet/10-Year plan).

BUT - if you're at the track every other weekend and after a few years your new helmet now has legs - you know who you are (I've probably had to install Hans Anchors into your helmet - we keep hand sanitizer and latex gloves around for that very purpose) think about the other option. For an additional $100 every 10 years (through the Two-Helmet/10-Year plan), you only have to breathe your own funk for HALF as long!

Do what you will - we have lots of SA2005 helmets on sale, and the sale-prices will only get lower as time goes on. We'll also be getting SA2010 helmets within the next few days beginning with the new Bell line. I'll just leave you with one last thought - I don't own a single pair of underwear that's even close to 10 years old...and I don't wear underwear on my head (do you?)

A Penny for Your Suit? How about 10000 Pennies?

2010-09-28T14:03:00.007-04:00

Every racing suit has a story. Every patch, every burn, and every inch of replacement Nomex thread tells a different story. Stories of the hard-won victories - and the countless losses that got you there.

OG Racing wants to hear your suit's story. Not only do we want to hear the story, we want the suit to display in our showroom! We are looking for 100 suits to canvas our showroom walls with. Each worn, well-used suit will have a small placard attached with the original owner's name, short-bio, and that suit's story.

And in typical OG Racing fashion, if you give us something, we're bound to give you something in return! In this case, it'll be a $100 rebate on any new Sparco SFI 3.2a/5 Racing suit.

And just to make things a little more interesting, we'll be awarding an additional $500 Gift Card (good for anything in the OG Racing catalog) for the most colorful suit story.

Here's the official rules:

1. Send us your old racing suit (see detailed instructions below). Racing suit must have been used by YOU personally (we already have Michael Andretti's racing suit and don't need another!) Include your name, a brief bio (condensed racing history), and approximate age of your suit.

2. We'll give you a $100 credit good towards the future purchase of any new Sparco 3.2a/5 SFI Racing suit (Closeouts models and Lico suits included).

Extra: Include a notable story/memory of your suit and you'll be entered in the $500 Gift Card prize. Story must be 500 words or less. Stories will be judged separately from above suit trade-in program.

Instructions: Please e-mail us at info@ogracing.com before shipping us your suit. Attach a recent photo of your suit and include your Name, Address, a brief-bio, Make/Model & age of your suit (if known). We will then e-mail you a pre-paid UPS label to ship your package to us along with any additional instructions. Please DO NOT ship your suit without first contacting us!

*Submitted suits will become the property of OG Racing. By participating in this program, you agree to allow OG Racing to publish and otherwise use your Name, Bio, and story material(s). OG Racing will not publish any confidential information such as address, e-mail, and telephone numbers. Only one entry/suit per person. OG Racing reserves the right to refuse any suit trade-in at our discretion. Please clean/launder all suits before shipment to OG Racing. Discount not transferable and must be used within ONE year. Program ends after 100 suits are received, at a date to be determined by OG Racing, or at the sole discretion of OG Racing. $500 Gift Card Contest: OG Racing reserves the right to terminate this contest for any reason. Entrance in contest is not a requirement of the suit trade-in program.

Stable Imaging RePlay Camera

2010-08-04T13:50:00.003-04:00

If you've been following our Facebook page, you'd know that we've been playing with these tiny, micro-sized cameras from Stable Imaging - the RePlay XD. Our customers at the track have so far loved the camera, and we're pretty impressed from the video quality from such a compact body:

Actual Size

Here's a video sample from our Facebook page:

We just received 10 of these into our building that we overnighted directly from Stable Imaging. Another 90 or so are due to arrive sometime next week, but we wanted to make sure our customers had first shot at getting these guys.

Available now for only $189:

Click here to order today!

Sparco Circuit Plus Seat

2010-06-29T15:35:00.004-04:00

Our last big seat shipment brought a surprise of sorts - the long overdue Sparco Circuit Plus Seat. We first were told about this seat about 2 years ago...I think most of us had pretty much given up on its existence. But 3 of them suddenly appeared last week!

What's the difference between this and the Sparco Circuit seat that's been around for years? Size. This seat is both taller and wider. Although I haven't taken actual measurements yet, to try and create some perspective, this seat is slightly too big and tall for my 5'10", 160 lb., 32 waist frame. But it fits the famous Brian Hair's 6'3", 205 lb, 36" waist perfectly.

RAM Camera Mounts

2010-04-02T11:33:00.003-04:00

We were pointed towards this company by AIM. This is by far the nicest (and best deal) in video camera mounts we've seen - especially for everyone using today's smaller, lightweight digital video cameras. RAM primarily makes car mounts for things like GPS displays, satellite radios, and phones (we're getting a few of those too). Their car camera mounts use the same sturdy design with easy angle adjustments and vibration dampening rubber coated ball-joints.

Did I mention the great deal these are? Starting at well below $40 for the roll-bar style mount, this is the least expensive mount that's not going to send your expensive camera flying across the car! Not much else out there using the same marine-grade aluminum construction.

Check out the different options here

Available in the afore-mentioned roll-bar mount as well as suction-cup mounts and simpler bolt-on styles:

Impact Decertified by SFI Foundation

2010-03-26T17:10:00.002-04:00

And the drama continues to unfold:

March 26, 2010 - NOTICE OF DECERTIFICATION; NOTICE TO CEASE AND DESIST AND TERMINATION OF ALL CONTRACTS OF PARTICIPATION ISSUED TO IMPACT RACING

SFI Foundation, Inc., has issued a Notice of Decertification; Notice of Cease and Desist, and a notice terminating all Contracts of Participation to Impact Racing. Effective April 27, 2010, all products manufactured and/or distributed by Impact Racing pursuant to SFI Specification Programs 3.2A, 3.3, 16.1, and 16.5 are decertified. Evidence obtained by SFI shows that over a period of years Impact Racing has engaged in the production and use of counterfeit SFI conformance labels and patches, and affixed them to Impact products for use in motorsports. Under the Contracts of Participation between SFI and Impact, SFI conformance labels and patches may only be obtained from SFI and no other source. Evidence shows that Impact had counterfeit SFI labels and patches made in Asia and then affixed them to Impact products it distributed to members of the racing community. To SFI’s knowledge, Impact never advised its customers that its products contained phony SFI labels and patches. Impact never advised SFI of its systematic and longstanding practice of counterfeiting and distributing SFI patches and labeling.

Impact has been directed to cease and desist from this practice. SFI has directed Impact to immediately notify all affected customers to remove the counterfeit labeling and to offer the affected customers a full refund of the purchase price. SFI is requesting that all counterfeit conformance labels removed from Impact products be sent to SFI.

SFI has elected not to decertify these products immediately in order to minimize the potential hardships to members of the racing community that have been brought about by Impact’s counterfeiting activities.

SFI has also elected to terminate all Contracts of Participation with Impact Racing effective 90 days from March 24, 2010. Under the terms of the Contracts, either party may terminate the agreements without penalty upon 90 days notice. This means that Impact will no longer be able to participate in any SFI programs after this 90 day period.

SFI has taken these actions in the best interests of the safety and integrity of the racing community. This is in keeping with SFI’s mission and purpose.

More info on SFI Foundation's site here.

For a downloadable .pdf of this notice, please click on the following link: Decertification Notice 03-26-10

AIM SmartyCams are here!

2010-03-10T11:32:00.004-05:00

Well, at least one still is. I didn't realize we received them sometime in the last couple of weeks - not until we sold them all accept for this last one did I get a chance to see the improved version! Don't worry, more are on the way - hopefully this one doesn't get sold so I get a chance to try out this new gadget.

As you can see, an external GPS antenna option is now shipped standard, including a dedicated connection port (Read our past post for all the improvements). I'm not certain as to the supposed firmware upgrades that were promised, but should get to test this in the next few days. I'll keep everyone updated!

HJC AR10 Helmet - Now in Rubberized Black Finish!

2010-03-08T16:30:00.002-05:00

We know that everyone loves the HJC SI-12 Helmet, especially in the Rubberized Black Finish.

Now the same finish is available on the entry level HJC AR-10 Helmet! In production since late last year, we'll be receiving our first shipment later this week. Still priced attractively at $311.99 (White is still only $299.99).

Click here for more info

Kirkey's New Road Race Containment Seat!

2010-02-18T17:49:00.003-05:00

We first caught wind of Kirkey's latest Road Race seat last summer when they sent us a prototype to play around with. Judging by Kirkey's perfectionist attitude towards designing, I figured we wouldn't actually see the seat for a while. However, I just got tracking info from Kirkey showing they are on the way!

Check it out:

Sorry for the poor photo - once it arrives (hopefully first thing next week) I'll get some better images made.

We're excited about this seat for a couple reasons. For starters, the seat has a much smaller profile then the first generation Full Containment seats. Better yet, the seat itself is only $540! (sans cover, of course)

I've hurriedly placed the seat on the site for ordering.

See details here

JUST IN - SPA Fire Systems

2010-02-18T17:20:00.002-05:00

We recently looked into carrying the SPA line of AFFF fire systems. SPA Technique has been manufacturing a nice line of FIA approved fire systems for several years. Our first shipment arrived earlier this morning:

See the Complete Line here

We've really been eyeing the entry level steel-bottled Multi-Flow system (pictured above). $325 gets you a system big enough for 2 chambers in the car (for example, ports in the cockpit AND the engine bay), and 6 nozzles to spread the love!

AIM SmartyCam Update

2010-02-12T15:13:00.004-05:00

Just finished hanging out with Chad & Cameron from AIM USA. One of the longer conversations was regarding the SmartyCam.

Good news first: If all goes well, we should be seeing these guys by the end of the month. Hopefully there's more accuracy in that statement then we normally see in this industry!

More good news: The version we're due to receive is the 3rd version of this camera with several improvements:

Externally mounted GPS antenna is now optional. Prior versions relied on an internal antenna that proved to loose its signal in some environments (it is sitting INSIDE the car after all!)

Improved video - the quality of the video recording has always been on the low side in the eyes of AIM USA. Their complaints have been heard, and the chipset supposedly greatly improved.

True Data-logging abilities - the data and video will both be recorded separately and importable into AIM's Race Studio software. Before this update, the data recorded into the unit could only be embedded in the video feed and not viewable for outside analysis.

I'm sure there are other updates that are less significant. AIM is proving itself to be a company that is continually tinkering with and bettering its product. Now that I think about it, the only bad news is the wait - I NEED to start playing with one of these right now!

AIM's New (Sort of) SmartyCam

2010-01-27T14:05:00.003-05:00

Although AIM's SmartyCam has been floating around for a little over a year, we're finally going to start seeing more of them at the track. The nifty camera system/data acquisition system has been available in Europe for quite sometime, and a few models have been floating around stateside. However, AIM has been admittedly working out some firmware kinks, but are finally ready to increase distribution in the U.S. market.

We should be seeing our first shipment of these by the end of next month (February). If you haven't seen them in person yet, the SmartyCam is pretty neat. The device - which fits in the palm of your hand - handles both Data Acquisition and video duties. But don't be fooled - that little space is enough to record a nearly HD quality 720x400px resolution, while processing a GPS track-map, 3D accelerometer data, and lap-timing data.

At $999.00, the device isn't exactly cheap. But when considering the price of a video camera AND separate data acquisition hardware, it may be the perfect solution for the up and coming racer.

Click here for more details

OG Racing welcomes Mark Francis!

2010-01-14T10:40:00.003-05:00

A welcome addition for the New Year - we're proud to announce that Mark Francis has joined the OG Racing team. With years of experience in the Motorsports Industry, Mark is also a long-time PCA instructor and club racer, and a certified NASA instructor. As our newest Sales & Marketing Representative, Mark will be traveling to various events throughout the year as both a participant and to provide trackside assistance. Be sure to say Hi the next time you see him in the paddocks!

NASA Nationals - OG Racing/Racepak Contingency Winners

2009-12-22T13:06:00.004-05:00

(Our apologies for the delay in this announcement. We had some "technical" issues getting the final list of names)

Congratulations to all of the OG Racing/Racepak Contingency prize winners at the NASA National event this past October!

Dan Goodman - GTS2 (Erie, CO)

Vali Predescu - GTS3 (Corona, CA)

Robert Stout - PTA (Brownsburg, IN)

Andrew Rushing - SM (Austin, TX)

Ken Smith - ST2 (Plymoth, MI)

Joe Ippolito - TTE (Cumming, GA)

Dan Gardner - PTC (Redondo Beach, CA)

All winners had impressive First Place finishes in their classes while using Racepak Data Acquisition Systems. Thank you for using Racepak products, and showing your support for OG Racing. And a thanks to Racepak for partnering with us on the Contingency plan!

Piloti, Piloti, Piloti...

2009-12-16T12:24:00.003-05:00

OG Racing has decided to once again remove Piloti from our line-up. To those of us who have been with us for the past 10 years, you might remember that this is the second time we've decided to stop selling Piloti. The first time, we had major problems with their accounting and customer service - product was never available, shipments were always months late, and their customer service was pretty non-existent.

The second time around has pretty much been the same. We were hoping for better; Piloti had strengthened as a company and was creating a major market for themselves not just in the motorsports industry, but in the shoe industry as a whole. Unfortunately, the latter part of that statement seemed to cause the same type of service issues, especially since we aren't as big as, say, Ross. It's also pretty tough to compete when the same product is available down the street at the shopping-mall.

So, Bon-Voyage Piloti, and best of luck in creating a brand out there in the shoe world!

(BTW - you may begin seeing discount prices on everything we have left in stock.)

2009 Motorsports Holiday Gift Guide

2009-12-08T12:33:00.004-05:00

2009 Motorsports Holiday Gift Guide - Part 3

2009-12-07T12:01:00.005-05:00

Saving the best for last ($500 and up):

Hans Device:

By now we should all be pretty fluent with what a Head and Neck Restraint is and how it is a key (if not the most important) piece of motorsports safety equipment. If your loved one still is not using one, they should. If YOU are not using one, then buy yourself a gift this holiday season. We still like the Hans Device for its simplicity and ease of use. We also like that it's still the most popular device on the market meaning there is lots of support when you need it, and that it starts at only $695.

Data Acquisition System:

Data acquisition systems were all the rage this past year, with a countless number of companies popping out of the woodwork. As it should! The quickest way to improve lap-times is not by buying thousands of dollars worth of equipment to make the car faster. Rather, the key to faster times is attacking the source - the driver. Data Acquisition systems allow the driver to see which exact skill-set needs to be improved. We like the Racepak line of systems due to their seemingly infinite expandability and top-notch customer support (see our write-up here).

Video Camera:

A good video camera guarantees that your loved one brings back all of their racing adventures so you can watch them together for days/weeks/years to come. Make sure to do some research before purchasing - not all cameras are suited for harsh race-car environments (Read here for a guide on what to look for in a Motorsports Camera). We still like the VIO camera systems for their ease of use and overbuilt, bomb-proof construction:

Driver Cooling System:

As much fun as we have, racing can be a grueling sport. We're suited up in a thick insulated suit, with a helmet that doesn't let air in. Then we're strapped into a car without any AC, and drive around on 100°+ days on melting asphalt! A good Cool Suit system will make any racer happy. These devices pump cooling water through a shirt that is worn under the driver's fireproof suit. After all, a happy driver is a safe driver!

Driving Suit:

Take a look at the suit your loved one is using. Chances are they've been wearing the same suit for the past 10, 15, even 20 years! Maybe now is the time to treat them (or yourself) to a fresh outfit. Even though no rules govern it in the states, even Nomex suits lose some of their protective ability as they are used over time. Not only that, but the newer styles are much lighter (not to mention look much better.) We still like Sparco suits for their quality, design, and fit.

Click here to view the entire Gift Guide

JUST IN - Sparco Storm ADV Gloves

2009-12-04T15:28:00.003-05:00

Sparco released a redesign of the popular Sparco Storm Gloves for 2010. Contrary to typical Sparco fashion, the gloves actually arrived at our shores AHEAD of schedule!

Now called the Sparco Storm ADV Gloves, the redesign offers a few visual changes from the original Storm gloves (seen here). The flat sticky palm, coincidentally named "Flat-HTX Treatment", has been revised with a more prolific cut that's supposed to aid in grip. It definitely looks like it'll be more comfortable around the steering wheel.

What really caught my eye, though, were the odd gill-like webbing on the back of the glove:

At first glance, I thought this was some odd-ball Italian design treatment initiated due to an excess of HTX material. Upon seeing the catalog preview, I discovered a surprising explanation:

...the Storm ADV now has a visor squeegee strategically incorporated into the forefinger.

Granted, most open-wheel racers will run tear-offs - but it's still a very creative concept and to the best of my knowledge, a design first. What do you think?

More Details Here

2009 Motorsports Holiday Gift Guide - Part 2

2009-12-02T11:46:00.005-05:00

Just what every racer needs ($100-$500):

Helmet Dryer:

Remember what I said about helmet stink? It's an unfortunate consequence of hanging out in stuffy cars on 100 degree days. It's even worse when the helmet is stored sopping wet for months on end - that's right...EWWW! Help the racer in your heart with a good helmet drier. We like the design of the counter-top Shockdoctor unit for its ease of use and quick drying times:

Lap Timers:

Every car enthusiast wants to know there lap times, may it be at the local go-kart track, or just running around the kitchen table. Why? Because we're ultra competitive and have to win (2nd is the first loser)! Plus, we need something to brag about come Monday morning. A simple lap timer records this information and provides a quick an inexpensive form of data acquisition. The AIM Mychron Light TG is simple to use, inexpensive, and has a pretty display:

Race Ramps:

If your loved one is still using the jack that came with the car to complete simple tasks like changing the oil, do them a favor a get them something a little safer. After-all, there's a reason we call them "suicide-jacks"! Race Ramps are a super light weight and easy to store ramp system that gets the car high enough in the air for most simple car repair tasks. The 56" system (shown below) allows even the lowest race car to drive up with ease.

Air Tank:

As we've discussed, Tire Pressure is EXTREMELY important to the automotive enthusiast. Especially when said enthusiast is at a race/track-day/autocross. We'll adjust the pressure constantly (something about pressure changes based on temperature). Now what tends to happen is that a large line will develop at the only air compressor at the event. And inevitably, we'll end up late to grid trying to adjust our pressures. A portable Air Tank lets us quickly adjust our tire pressures and make grid before everyone else.

Digital Tire Pyrometer:

I suggested a less-expensive Laser Pyrometer on the previous holiday guide. What makes a Tire Pyrometer different? It's for tires, silly! And if we don't know the temperature of our tires, how are we supposed to know what pressure to keep them at?

Fire System:

A good, properly installed Fire Suppression System is a must have for every enthusiast driving or racing a highly modified car. The concept is simple: Push a large red button and fire suppressing chemicals erupt all around the car. In all seriousness, fires occur very quickly - often quicker then many drivers can get a car stopped, and climb out of and away from the flames. This simple safety device offers, in the least, a few precious life saving moments.

And most importantly...Pit Impact Gun:

Your loved one will think they belong on a Nascar Pit Team. Need I say more?

Click here to view the entire Gift Guide

2009 Motorsports Holiday Gift Guide - Part 1

2009-12-01T14:01:00.009-05:00

It's a pretty well known fact that car geeks are hard to shop for. Sure, we might have thrown obvious hints throughout the year about all the toys and gadgets we've been craving. But I know that as soon as the conversation slides towards rubber and track-times your ears are trained to close.

With this in mind, I present OG Racing's contribution this holiday season: Our First Annual Gift Guide. The guide will be separated into 3 parts for all levels of budget/love. Next year, you might want to listen to our driving stories just long enough to catch some hints! Part 1 follows:

It's the little things that count ($100 and under):

Tire Gauge:

Remember how we're always talking about how important tire pressure is? How the difference in temperature can effect the tire pressure resulting in significant handl...la-la-la. Here's all you need to know - we can never have enough tire gauges. If we have 5, that means there will be that much less of a chance we'll be at the track wondering where our tire gauge is. And being a car geek, it is absolutely, positively against the rules to borrow a gauge from your competitor! Don't worry, we'll find something to do with it, even if it means keeping one in YOUR car!

Pyrometer:

Just as tire pressure is the most important thing to the car geek, temperature is an easy second. We'll point this thing at the engine and list varying temperature fluctuations based on different oil weights. Then we'll shine it at the brake rotors to prove just how hard we're braking into corners. We'll even point the laser at competitors eyes for that extra edge (don't try this at home kids)! And if all else fails, the pointer makes a fantastic toy for the cats.

Mechanics Gloves:

Ever find black hand-prints all over the house? Here's a hint: If your shade-tree mechanic of a car geek had some gloves to work with, their hands would stay clean! Not only that, but you'll save tons of cash on frivolous things like bandages and tetanus shots. Just don't let your loved one know - we're quick to "disappear" extra funds into the racing budget.

Helmet Bag:

Ever have a helmet roll off the top shelf and land on your head? Ouch! Start your resident racer on the right track of organization with a nice helmet bag. Not only will it help protect their prized possession from dings and scratches, it can potentially increase the safety and life of the helmet. As an added bonus, helmet bags keep that stench from permeating into everything else in your closet!

Driving Gloves:

As brave as we seem, our palms get sweaty while going around in circles at 200 mph (actually, we're usually well below 100 - but you'll never hear it from us). Help us maintain our grip and keep us out of the tire wall!

Driving Shoes:

Ever hear us talk about "dancing on the pedals"? No, we're not grooving to the latest track from Beyonce while aimlessly driving around at reckless speeds. We're working hard here - you know: clutch, brake, gas, brake, more gas. Help us treat our poor feet to the comfort they deserve with a pair of dedicated track shoes!

Racers Tape:

We use this stuff to cover up the front end of the track car. It helps protect the car from track debris (gravel, nuts/bolts, random wheels). That way you never know we had your new car at the track. Shhh...don't let on that you know our dirty little secret. Instead, say that the colorful tape matches their eyes.

And finally....Stopwatch:

This is really more of something to help keep you occupied when you are duped into coming to the track with us. A fun toy that can help you join in your loved one's hobby? Excellent! "Hon...you were 3 seconds faster that time around!! You're doing great!" Just don't let on that you never touched the thing and were reading a book. Trust me - they'll be so elated, they'll never check!

Click here to view the entire Gift Guide

Black Friday Deals!

2009-11-25T14:36:00.001-05:00

Check out the e-mail flyer:

Black Friday Newsletter

Hurry - supplies are limited!

Veterans' Day Message

2009-11-11T16:40:00.001-05:00

To all my fellow veterans, thank you for your service to our country. On this day that we thank those who served, we also should remember those that did not return. Remember the brothers and sisters, fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, friends and others that gave up their lives so that each of us can sleep warm and safe at night. If you think that times are tough ask someone who’s assaulted a hill, survived an ambush or lived through incoming and they may tell you what tough is. Again I say, to all my fellow veterans, thank you for your service to our country.

- Bill Love (Owner, OG Racing)

Redline Oil Price Increase

2009-10-29T13:20:00.002-04:00

You may have noticed an increase in Redline Oil prices a few weeks ago. We've received several complaints regarding our recent increase of Redline Oil prices and unfortunately will maintain the current pricing per a request from Redline Oil.

Unfortunately, another price increase on the Redline products is due for sometime in December. Last time, we couldn't provide any real notice of the increase - I do not want to make the same mistake again!

Take advantage of the current prices while you can! If you read this in time, make sure to check the post immediately before this regarding our Halloween Sale for some more savings.

Halloween Sale

2009-10-29T13:11:00.001-04:00

Our annual Halloween Sale is on!

Click here for details

Happy Halloween!

NHRA Safety Initiatives for 2010 Announced

2009-10-27T10:52:00.002-04:00

NHRA has announced its technical initiatives for 2010, which are designed to improve safety as well as reduce unwanted downtime at events due to leakage on the track.

Highlighting the changes in 2010 will be the implementation of a new Eject Helmet Removal System in all four Professional categories, Top Alcohol Dragster, Top Alcohol Funny Car, and in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series. The system uses an inflatable bladder located in the top of the helmet to make removal of the helmet by safety personnel after an incident easier and safer. see more

Read the entire article here

AIM Sports MyChron Light TG Lap Timer

2009-10-22T15:22:00.004-04:00

We've carried AIM for a little while for our Karting market - their Mychron 4 Data Acquisition is, as most karters know, the Data Acquisition unit to have. I recently had a chance to sample AIM's simple lap timer, the MyChron Light TG. With a clean design, compact size, and competitive price, I figured it was worth looking into.

The basic design is simple, and proven to be much more accurate then just a stop-watch: An infrared beacon sits trackside; each time the car passes, a receiver connected to the timer senses the beacon and stops/resets the timer. The feature list is what is most impressive. Up to 1200 laps, 50 individual tracks, and 5 split times - all recorded on non-volatile memory (your data is not erased when the batteries die). The data can even be downloaded to the PC (cable not included), making this a bare-bones data acquisition unit of sorts. The large display is versatile, with a number of different settings (laps, qualify, race) and even a handy graph comparing your lap times.

At $249, the MyChron Light is still more expensive then the tried & true Longacre Hot Lap Timers. It was also designed for motorcycle use, resulting in a receiver that is less then 2-feet long. We mounted the unit in Brian's car and had him do some laps around the building. The receiver worked great mounted in the windshield, allowing the timer to be close to, and seen by the driver. EDIT: We've discovered that the units sent to us were incorrect! A car specific model is available with a much longer 8 foot cable. This, obviously, is the only model we plan to stock.

Despite the minor complaint, we are pretty unanimous in thinking that the Mychron Light is a nice and simple lap-timer that doesn't break the bank. Which is why we're going to start stocking it!

Available in both a 6v and 12v versions. The 12v version requires an external power-supply, but has the gorgeous blue back-lit display.

Click here for more info

Customer Survey - What should OG Racing's upcoming Halloween Sale be?

2009-10-14T12:43:00.008-04:00

SURVEY CLOSED - Thanks for participating!

For the past 3 years, OG Racing has had some sort of sale event for Halloween. Don't ask me why we chose halloween - we just did.

In the past, we've done a simple blanket discount off of the entire store. I hate to break tradition, but I thought I would put out a survey to see what our customers want.

Please click here to participate in the survey

Let us know what you think - obviously, your opinion counts!

Sparco Annual Garage Sale

2009-09-17T16:14:00.003-04:00

This is on the opposite coast from us, but I figure the news might reach some of our readers:

Sparco's Annual Garage Sale is happening on September 26, 2009. From Sparco USA:

Yes, its that time again - we're clearing out the rafters. The warehouse is bulging with great deals on discontinued and scratch & dent items.

Over 200 seats available...
Suits, Helmets, Harnesses, Shift Knobs, Pedals and much, much more!

Plenty of cars on display. Door prizes including K1 kart racing tickets!

Located at Sparco USA headquarters:

1852 Kaiser Ave.
Irvine, CA 92614

From 9 AM - 3 PM
Saturday, September 26, 2009

Tell them you heard about it at OG Racing!

Snell SA2010 Rating?

2009-09-14T17:39:00.002-04:00

It's that time again! The latest Snell rating is right around the corner, which means that everyone is lining up to purchase a helmet to use for the next 10 years. We've started getting many inquiries from customers regarding when these helmets will actually be for sale. Kyle Kietzmann of Bell Motorsports lays out the details, along with some advice for your future helmet purchase:

For the Snell SA or Special Applications standard, the first Snell SA 2010 certified helmets will not be available for sale from any manufacturer until October 1, 2010. This is the official release date for the latest Snell standard. Between now and October 1, 2010, Bell Racing will continue to sell Snell SA2005 certified helmets.

Retail customers may start to question the necessity of buying a Snell SA2005 helmet and decide to postpone purchasing a new helmet until the Snell SA2010 standard is released. It is important to remind customers of the necessity of having adequate head protection and the need to replace helmets that have been damaged or have exceeded their useful life expectancy regardless of the next Snell transition date.

When the next Snell SA standard is released, sanctioning bodies will require Snell SA2005 or above. In reality, a customer that buys a Snell SA2005 helmet between now and October 1, 2010 will be able to use that helmet for at least another 5 years. Bell recommends replacing helmets that have been exposed to normal wear and not subjected to an accident after a 5 year period.

Many may think that Bell is purposely attempting to persuade customers into NOT waiting for the 2010 release date in order to prevent a complete and total collapse of helmet sales for 2010. I, too, agree with Bell regarding the true lifespan of a helmet - and no, not because we stand to lose sales as well!

Example - The other day, I installed Hans Anchors in a helmet with an early SA2000 rating. I'm not kidding when I say this thing has legs! Thankfully, we have latex gloves on hand for such occasions. But in all seriousness people, when the helmet is that old and grimy, the performance benefits are very questionable. Dirt, oils (from your head) and grime slowly break down the foams/plastics that your helmet is built from. Unfortunately, there is no east test for determining the safety of your helmet.

So if you need a new helmet - just get a new helmet. There is no point in sacrificing your safety under the chance that a 10 year old helmet MIGHT do it's job when needed!

NASA National Championships - On the Road Update!

2009-09-11T16:45:00.004-04:00

We just heard back from Tiffany McCollum and Stacey Braithwaite, our employees representing OG Racing at the NASA Nationals at Miller Motorsports Park in Utah. Here's a quick run-down of their experience so far:

Tooele, Utah 09/09/09 We've arrived in Tooele and made our way to Miller Motorsports Park. The weather is mid 80’s and no humidity.

This place is AWESOME!!! This is definitely one of the nicest tracks in the US. NASA test and tune is today and we have watched everyone get things together, get ready to tech and make some runs on the 3.38 mile track. We have already met and talked to many of the racers who decided to come a day early to get their cars in the best condition for 3 days of racing.

Shannon and Jay Matus from NASA Texas have been excellent hosts for OG Racing. They are located in GP garage 24, along with OG Racing's base of operation. We have a chance not only to meet and talk with the racers but to be a part of the actual racing experience. Tiffany and I have learned so much about car prep, tech and timing. This is only a part of the group of NASA racers that will be here tomorrow. We are excited to meet everyone that is here!

Shannon and Jay Matus had a rear axle break on their GT3, and a garage here actually had an axle and let them use the lift to get back on the track in record time. Thanks Tatum Racing!

We also have been keeping tabs on our own Mid-atlantic NASA star Chris Cobetto!!! He is doing great but had a brief incident with a brake caliper - the piston seal busted, leaking fluid everywhere. And can you believe that in this middle of nowhere track, a parts store in the nearest town actually had a replacement? It is great to see NASA as a family - even though the competition is heavy, they still look out for one another.

Tomorrow is Qualifying and we are looking forward to an influx of drivers overnight.

09/10/09 Qualifying went well, with more NASA drivers arrived overnight. We are meeting some great racers, mostly from the west coast and Texas. There have been no major incidents save a mangled miata and a blown motor in a Mustang. Both drivers were ok. Everyone here has been great to us and we are having a great time!!!

Tonight is the dinner and the OG suit giveaway!!! We have lots of entries and are still collecting, them as we go around to meet the drivers.

Tomorrow is more qualifying, with Saturday and Sunday being the actual races.

NASA National Championships

2009-09-03T15:40:00.003-04:00

OG Racing is pleased to announce that two of its sales staff will be attending the NASA Championships at Miller Motorsports Park on September 9 -13, 2009 in Tooele, Utah. OG Racing is the Official Safety Equipment Supplier for NASA and a proud supporter of NASA racing.

In conjunction with the NASA Championships, OG Racing will also be offering all competitors the opportunity to win a custom Sparco race suit along with a number of other prizes. The offer is available to all NASA Championship competitors taking part in the event who register for the raffle. Registration forms are included in the driver’s packet. Completed Registration Forms may be turned in at the Driver’s Information Booth anytime before Friday, September 11 at 4pm. Winners will be selected at random and the awards presented during the Drivers Welcome Dinner on Friday evening. Please see the event schedule for an exact time.

The National Auto Sport Association (NASA) is also pleased to announce that OG Racing and Racepak have partnered to offer over $25,000 in CASH to the top finishers at the 4th annual NASA Championships event at Miller Motorsports Park on September 10 - 13, 2009. The OG Racing/Racepak contingency program applies to all eligible classes at the NASA Championships.

About the NASA Championship Event: The toughest competition in NASA's season this year will take place September 10-13, 2009 at Miller Motorsports Park. The 4th NASA Championships will allow competitors from all over the country to battle for the most coveted National Champion title in their respective classes at one of the most demanding and prestigious road courses in the country. For drivers, this will be a unique opportunity to measure their skills against the best of the best. Spectators will have a chance to see the finest racing action NASA has to offer as well as the opportunity to participate in special events throughout the week designed to give them a taste of the action.

This week-long event will also include peripheral activities such as manufacturers Auto X, Tech Seminars, Go Kart racing, Kids Activities, Exhibition Auto X/Rally X, Drifting, Remote Control Car Racing and Slot Car Racing, Food, Concerts, Drive-in Movies and much more.

For more information on the NASA National Championship event, please visit: http://nasachampionships.com/

Sparco Harness Deal - $100 each

2009-09-01T12:25:00.005-04:00

EDIT (10:14, 09/2/09): Both Belts have sold. Thanks for helping make some space in my office!

Someone pulled a fast one on us.

Here's the story:

I have TWO Sparco 6 Point Harnesses in Red. They look like this:

They both have 2007 build dates (FIA Expires 2012). The problem with them is that each has exactly ONE Pull-Up Lap end, and ONE Pull-Down Lap End. I know some customers in the past were installing such systems to make belt adjustment easier (it's difficult to pull down/out with a door in the way!) I'm guessing someone bought 4 sets, and swapped out the pieces they needed, then returned the other set. Tricky, tricky...we didn't realize the oddity until we were showing them to a customer.

So, here's the offer. I'm selling these for $99 each (Original Retail $299). Purchase a RED harness set at the following link:

SPARCO-6-POINT-COMPLETE-HARNESS-SET-WAREHOUSE-CLOSEOUT

Then use one of the following coupon codes: ~~104576-2~~ OR ~~104667-3~~

Each code is set up for one set of harnesses - so if you want both sets, buy each as an individual line item, and use both codes.

The coupons are single use, so if they don't work, that means someone else has already taken advantage of the deal. I'll also delete/modify these posts if that happens.

Please, please get these out of my office!!

Counterfeit HANS Device Pro Series Post Anchors

2009-08-19T12:31:00.008-04:00

EDIT: Per a request from Impact Racing Products, OG Racing has been asked to remove this notice.

The complete text is available from other news agencies such as:

www.cnbc.com/...
or
www.motortrend.com/...

You may also visit the Hans Device website for more information:

http://hansdevice.com/Anchor-Replacement

Two Class and One Overall Victories For Ann Arbor Driver Maloof at MidOhio NASA Race Weekend

2009-08-19T11:30:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Team OG Racing Driver Christian Maloof. Keep up the great work!

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (August 16, 2009) – Ann Arbor driver Christian Maloof earned 1st place finishes in each of National Auto Sport Association (NASA)’s GTS (Thunder) Division races on August 15-16. Maloof, whose 1995 Porsche 993 RSCS competes in the GTS3 Division, competed in a field of 47 (Thunder) cars and the GTS field to earn two class wins and one overall GTS victory. Maloof’s Saturday and Sunday wins, his first in-class/overall finishes in his second year racing with NASA, come close on the heels of several strong finishes in the 2009 Grand-Am KONI Challenge, where he races with Freedom Autosport.
On Saturday, Maloof had a strong practice, followed by qualifying in P3. “We hit all our target times in practice and were still making small improvements even in qualifying, so I felt very confident about the race,” said Maloof. Saturday’s Thunder GTS race, (a field of 47 cars including German Touring Classes 2-4), green-flagged at 2:10 pm.

Read more here

Or read more on Christian Maloof on his blog: http://christianmaloofracing.blogspot.com

Now Available: Motul & Brembo Brake Fluid

2009-08-11T17:25:00.004-04:00

By popular demand (and since we suddenly found some room in our brake fluid offerings!)

Motul RBF600:

and Brembo LCF600 Plus:

Sparco R505 (Torino) Seat now in stock!

2009-08-07T16:45:00.004-04:00

Word of this new seat from Sparco has been floating around the rumor-mill for some time now. In fact, some less then honest shops have been advertising it as in-stock since the beginning of the year. However, we just received a shipment from Sparco - these seats are finally here and in stock! It caught us a little off guard since we've been told they weren't due until October at the earliest.

In any case, I present the Sparco R505 Sport seat:

This seat is eventually due to replace the Torino seat which has been around for well over 10 years. The seat features more aggressive bolsters that are sized a little more generously then the original Torino, meaning that more drivers of different sizes will be able to fit. It's available in 6 different colors - Black w/Grey stitching (above) and:

Black w/Red Stitching

Black w/Blue Stitching

Grey

Blue

& Red

The price is $599.00 per seat (identical to the previous Torino).

Click here for more details here.

Change of Ownership at Sparco

2009-08-04T15:46:00.005-04:00

July 20, 2009: Sparco Italy has been acquired by Aldino Bellazzini, CEO Petronas Lubricants. The acquisition was made possible through a significant increase in capital and a simultaneous restructuring of Sparco's debts.

With the new ownership, Sparco will now have increased financial resources to develop its business and product range.

Aldino Bellazzini:

My commitment comes from the acknowledgement of the extraordinary value of Sparco as a brand as well as from the wide range of products offered by its product catalogs...The trust and support that Sparco customers have shown in the [past] allow me to plan a quick and stable return to the leadership position that Sparco deserves.

We'll post more news as it arrives, but OG Racing along with Sparco USA are extremely excited to hear this news and can't wait to see the new products and technology that will emerge from it!

Defnder - So long lime green!

2009-08-03T13:02:00.003-04:00

This isn't exactly a news flash - if you've been watching DefNder's website, the new black color has been reported for quite some time. But this is the first shipment we've received with the updated appearance:

Say goodbye to Lime Green - Apparently, this was one of the biggest complaints from Defnder customers!

VIO POV Camera Systems

2009-07-15T17:43:00.003-04:00

We've noticed lots of customers buying these camera systems from Amazon.com. Not so much the POV.1 but the POV.1.5. Seems that Amazon touts this as an upgraded unit from the POV.1.

I guess this is true to a point.

Both units use identical recorder units. The 1.5 comes pre-installed with the 1.3 Firmware upgrade that allows the use of the 4/8 GB SDHC cards (more on this later). This has actually always been a free upgrade to any POV unit - the 1.5 just saves you the hassle of the installation (took me 2 minutes including download - yes, I timed it). With the upgrade, the 1.5 includes a 4 GB card (again, more on this below).

Both units have the same 110 degree wide-angle lens. The 1.5 is red anodized instead of black. Here's the difference - the 1.5's cable is permanently attached, where as the POV.1 is a 2-piece design. This helps save some weight, but primarily it makes it a whole lot less complex to install.

Aside from that, what's the big difference? Mounting brackets. The POV.1 comes with an almost universal mounting kit that includes attachments to most solid objects. The POV.1.5 has a "star-mount" that makes mounting to helmets and other similar surfaces super easy.

So there you go. I personally don't think it's an "upgraded" unit. It's more a different unit, geared towards different needs. You decide which is best for you.

And I did hint at more below in one of the above paragraphs. To help even the playing field and show just how equal these 2 really are, OG Racing (ie, me) is installing the firmware upgrade on all POV.1 units. Time is valuable, and this will save you those 2 minutes. And to complete the equality factor, we're also replacing the included 1 GB card with a 4 GB card. So there - choose your weapon.

Almost forgot - we're also now stocking the VIO Power adapters:

These replace the 4 AA batteries with an interchangeable adapter that can hook up to a direct power source, or through the car's cigarette lighter.

Neat stuff.

Budget Camcorders

2009-07-08T12:31:00.002-04:00

I'm still routinely meeting folks who think that the only way they can obtain video in their cars is with a $2k camera system. Looks like I still have work to do!

To counter that, I discovered this video article during my daily web surf:

Best Budget Camcorders

All of the cameras featured utilize SD card technology. My fave was the Canon FS200. $330 gets you something that looks like a real camcorder, complete with a fold out monitor!

Independence Day Specials

2009-07-02T10:56:00.001-04:00

Here's some Fourth of July specials for everyone:

OG Racing Newsletter - Fourth of July Sale!

Remember, for this weekend only, every order over $300 gets a free Shockdoctor bag!

V.I.O. POV.1 - Price drop!

2009-06-23T12:22:00.003-04:00

We just received notice today that the popular V.I.O. POV.1 has dropped in price again. Now only $599.95!

I've said it before, and I'll say it again: This is without a doubt, the most robust video camera I've tested to date. It also happens to be the easiest to use (passes the computer illiteracy test.) How tough is it? There's a video on here of it being smacked and spun in a Spec Miata...it doesn't even flinch.

More details on the unit here: VIO-POV1-DIGITAL-VIDEO-RECORDING-SYSTEM

MARRS 4, Summit Point - Spec Miata Crash

2009-06-17T09:24:00.005-04:00

WARNING: There is some post incident PG-13/R language. Might want to turn down the volume a tad!

Footage was taken using a VIO POV.1 Camera System - notice how the feed doesn't "flinch" at all. Thanks to Bret DePedro & RP Performance for the video - glad you made it out okay!

Team OG Racing Member: Quantum Rally Sport Promo Video

2009-06-15T12:11:00.003-04:00

Just got this from Team OG Racing Members Josh & Jeremy Wimpey. It's a promo video for the upcoming Rally Idaho, July 10-11 (Round 1 of the 2009 MaxAttack! 2-Wheel Drive Rally Championship):

Some more info from Josh Wimpey:

MaxAttack! was founded in 2006 and has quickly become known as the series where talent means more than money. where determination can overcome inadequate equipment, and where camaraderie extends from one team to their rivals.

It should be no surprise to anyone who has ever driven a mk2 GTI in anger that two of the top teams entered in the first round of the MaxAttack! championship are driving one.
MaxAttack! Co-Founder Eric Burmeister has this to add:

"Each team is a team of brothers.
Each team is known in their respective regions as being extremely talented...some of the best driving/codriving talent in the nation.
Each team has mid-to-high spec level clubman Group 2 cars. Same model, similar preparation.
One team is near the Atlantic, one team is near the Pacific, and both have their sights on the Jake Himes Cup. And Rally Idaho will be the first time they run head to head.
Moreover, both are the type of competitors that CRAVE competition. They don't pick their events to try to win trophies, they pick their events to race against the best.
Good luck to all four of youse guys... Tom, Don, Josh and Jeremy."

MaxAttack! is THE venue for the best in 2WD rally action in North America. Period.

Wish us Luck!

Good luck guys!

Hyperfest at Summit Point - Saturday, June 20, 2009

2009-06-15T09:54:00.003-04:00

As if you weren't already prepared...NASA Mid-Atlantic is once again hosting Hyperfest at Summit Point! The 8th annual running of this crazy event is this coming Saturday, June 20, 2009. Here's the latest update from NASA:

June 20, 21: Hope to see you at the 8th annual Hyperfest at Summit Point Raceway! HPDE 1, 2, 2 groups are full with a wait list, but we still have spaces for weekend race groups. A couple of instructor slots are still available. Register today to guarantee your spot or e-mail registration@nasaracing.net if your group is full! Don’t forget that the Hyperfest event offers a chance for your family, friends and crew to get involved in or just watch the craziness with tons of activities including: shotgun rides and rally rides for $5; hyperdrives for $40; vendor midway, fireworks, Rollover contest, US Drift Nationals, live music, stunt motorcycle exhibition and much MUCH more! Go here for info: http://www.hyper-fest.com/

For more info on Hyperfest, visit: www.hyper-fest.com

In other news, Summit Point has officially opened the all new Washington Circuit kart track, complete with a fleet of 22 Sodi RX7 karts with 13hp engines for arrive and drive excitement. Stop by during a break in festivities at Hyperfest (Must be 16 or older to drive). For more information, visit www.summitpointkart.com.

Team OG Racing Update

2009-05-29T16:54:00.002-04:00

Updates on the Team OG Racing program are long overdue - sorry guys! I have a list of excuses I can use - but in reality, my pet project was put on the backburner for some good ole' OG Racing customer service (ie, the phones haven't stopped ringing over here!!)

In the next few weeks, I want to start introducing all of the current members who have worked hard to become a part of this program by sharing their racing adventures with the world wide web. I really appreciate the effort, and hope your experiences will attract others into this crazy hobby of ours. After all, if not for the social aspect, this would be a whole lot less fun!

Our goal was, and still is, to create a network of dedicated motorsports/car fanatics that can write about what their up to. Persons who have signed up for this program probably figured out pretty quickly that their was no real selection process. So long as you have even the slightest bit of excitement for cars, we want to hear about it! As time goes on, I hope more and more learn about this program and send me an e-mail. And if you haven't heard about what this is all about yet, click on the link to the right to learn more.

To start, if you haven't noticed the blog list to the right, please take a chance to click on some. These are the current Team OG Racing members! Congratulations are deserved for all of you for having an excellent 2009 season! Remember, there will always be speedbumps to victory - just never forget why we play with cars to begin with! (I just made that up myself - not bad for the hour before the weekend, right?)

Bringing your video and data together

2009-05-19T13:23:00.003-04:00

Lets face it - bringing video of your weekend driving adventures to impress your coworkers on Monday can be great fun. But have you ever had trouble convincing others that you actually hit 110 on the straight in your Miata? Need proof of your record breaking laptime? Have we got the thing for you!

Okay, salesman voice off. Most of the reputable data acquisition companies have recently added updates to their software that allow the viewing of a video clip alongside corresponding data feeds. However, all of the data acquisition software stops at that, and doesn't go further to allow actual video/data merging.

Trackvision, started by a couple of local Porsche Club racers, solved that problem a few years ago with an easy to use program that allowed integrating your data acquisition file with your video file. Simple enough, right? Apparently, they felt the need for version 2.1, with a much improved interface, more video formats (16:9, HD abilities), increased datalogger compatibility (including RacePak and Traqmate), and more customizable features (such as over 20 different dashboard displays). What does the end result offer? Pictures (or in this case, video) are better then words:

West WX10 - VIR from Eric Vassian on Vimeo.

High Def!!

Camera Test/New Race Motor Break-in from Chad P. on Vimeo.

FIND OUT MORE INFO HERE!

Sparco Pro ADV seats are here!

2009-05-15T10:02:00.003-04:00

2009 has been a particularly popular year for seat upgrades, in particular, halo style seats that offer the side-impact protection that so many drivers are lacking. Until the Pro ADV seat was introduced by Sparco mid-2008, Sparco's halo-style seat offerings were limited to the Circuit Pro (too short) and the Circuit (too narrow). The Pro ADV was just right for a large percentage of the U.S. market.

Unfortunately, in typical Italian fashion, the U.S. pretty much ran out of Pro ADV seats sometime in February - you know, right when everyone was building there race cars. At least in black (no one in their right minds would dare put any other color in their cars, right?).

Now for the good news for all of the patient customer out there...the boat from Italy has finally landed!!! I usually don't declare such hopeful news until I'm physically caressing each and every seat; but I make exception in this case. We should be seeing a freight-box arrive early next week with the 20+ seats we've had on backorder since January. A good portion of these are already accounted for (again, thank you patient customers!) But if you've also been keeping an eye out, jump in soon before they disappear again for another half-year!

Order yours today!

Sparco Logo Shoes!

2009-05-11T09:47:00.003-04:00

The Sparco Logo shoe is new for 2009. This casual shoe is based on the very popular Pit Lane shoes, but with a large "Sparco" branding on the side:

I'm noticing that they are turning into quite a hit, with demand beginning to surpass our supply. Personally, I'm still partial to the Pit Lane Shoes they are based on:

But that's just my humble opinion!

For more info on these and other casual shoes from Sparco, click here: Sparco Pit Lane & Logo Shoes

NASA/OG Racing Seat Replacement Program

2009-05-06T10:05:00.000-04:00

The National Auto Sport Association (NASA) is pleased to announce that OG Racing, NASA's official Motorsports Safety Equipment Supplier, will offer a very generous program to NASA competitors in 2009. Anyone unfortunate enough to incur damage to their competition vehicle during a NASA event in 2009 which renders their current competition seat of any brand unfit for use will be eligible to purchase a new Sparco seat from OG Racing at the substantially reduced price of 50% off the retail price. (cont.)

Read the entire press release and participation instructions HERE

HANS Device Fitment Issues

2009-05-04T16:09:00.005-04:00

When we first started carrying the Hans device 4 or 5 years ago, we'd get lots of initial questions regarding fit. Most of them slowly disappeared over time as the device became more and more mainstream. However, I've recently heard a once common misconception re-surface over the last few weeks regarding how the device is supposed to fit:

How do I adjust the tethers on my Hans Device? It was shipped to me with too much slack. I am able to look down and in all directions very easily. Is this correct?

Answer: Yes, this fitment is correct. Even with the original fixed tethers, the Hans device allows quite a bit of head motion; enough that the wearer should be able to look down and assemble their harness. What it comes down to is that the simple motion of tilting your head downwards is usually not enough to cause a basilar skull fracture (the injury the head & neck restraint attempts to prevent). Rather, it is the hyper extension of the head away from the harnessed body that is responsible for the potentially lethal injury:

Without Device (we should all have seen these images by now):

With Device:

The lethal extension that can be produced in a impact is much further then the 6" of motion that the Hans device allows.

For the record, the tethers on the Hans Device can be adjusted up to +/- 1 full inch. Some drag racers, for instance, will remove all slack from the device tethers in order reduce the head movement associated with the force their cars produce. Sliding tethers can obviously not be adjusted, but shorter/longer versions are available for a custom fit.

Arai GP-6?

2009-04-23T11:41:00.004-04:00

I've been hearing about the new Arai GP-6 since last year. However, any news regarding the Arai auto line is pretty non-existent in the U.S. The helmet came to my attention again after seeing that Racing Optics is already listing tear-offs for this model. I had to go and find a picture:

The safe assumption for now is that if we get this helmet in the states, we won't see it until the Snell SA2010 helmets start production. In fact, word on the streets is that we probably won't be seeing much of any Arai helmets until that standard gets here! I also wouldn't expect the pricey $4000+ carbon version to get here. As this is one of a few helmets that pass the FIA 8860:2004 standard, only a select group of F1 drivers are sporting this fancy thing.

HANS Device Mess!

2009-04-01T12:57:00.003-04:00

Our warehouse manager, Rob, had a complaint this morning. He seems to be slightly overwhelmed with Hans Devices:

With nearly 90 different possible configurations of the HANS Device (Super-Small, Medium, Large; Sliding or Fixed Tethers; and 3 different anchors to choose from: Quick-Click, LW2 Lightweight, and Post Anchor), and our goal to keep in stock each variation, we've been left with quite a mess!

For the time being, the HANS aisle has been deemed a disaster area, and we have all been instructed to enter at our own risk...

Now on Facebook!

2009-03-31T17:15:00.002-04:00

OG Racing is now on Facebook!

Come join the newly created OG Racing Facebook Group. Feel free to start a discussion or share your recent pictures/videos.

Coffee & Donuts

2009-03-30T23:07:00.003-04:00

This was something I dreamed up - you see, every Saturday which I was scheduled to work, I would run out of steam by noon (we're open from 10am - 2pm). And as a proper lunch was not possible with such hours, I needed some sort of pick-me-up.

Enter a new OG Racing tradition - Coffee & Donuts!! Every Saturday throughout the season, join us at OG Racing for Free Coffee & Donuts! A small donation can be made by buying something (only if you absolutely insist). Hang out, talk racing, see new products. What better way to spend a Saturday morning?

ATTENTION: Impact SFI Suit Recall Notice

2009-03-20T13:47:00.002-04:00

Read the Original Notice Here

[A] Notice of Decertification was issued today to Impact Racing Products, Inc. regarding certain products (listed below), and that Impact will issue a Notice of Recall of such products. Therefore, effective immediately, the products listed below will no longer be accepted for use in NHRA racing. We understand that Impact will issue a recall notice tomorrow, March 20, 2009.

Please consult www.impactraceproducts.com for information or contact Impact directly. The products are:

• Driver suits, pants and jackets manufactured in 2008 identified as compliant with SFI Specification 3.2A/15 or 3.2A/20
• Driver shoes and boots manufactured in 2008 identified as compliant with SFI Specification 3.3/15 or 3.3/20

SFI has informed NHRA that products manufactured in 2007 and 2009 are being further evaluated by SFI.

Shock Doctor Partners with Aston Martin Racing

2009-03-18T17:38:00.001-04:00

Shock Doctor, Inc. announces it is the new Official Technical Luggage Supplier for Aston Martin Racing. Shock Doctor will support the team as it competes at Le Mans and in the Le Mans Series with its new LMP1 car.

2009 is an important year for Aston Martin as it will be fifty years since the company won the 24 Hours of Le Mans outright. In 1959, Carroll Shelby and Roy Salvadori won the famous race in a DBR1. This year Aston Martin Racing returns to the race with two cars in the iconic Blue and Orange livery of Gulf Oil International to challenge for an outright victory once again.

“We are pleased to partner with Shock Doctor, in providing our racers with cutting-edge performance and protection,” said Aston Martin Chairman, David Richards. “2009 is a hugely significant year for Aston Martin at Le Mans and the challenge of reclaiming victory in this famous race for Aston Martin and Great Britain was simply too great to ignore. We do not underestimate the task, and I see this as a great opportunity to showcase the ingenuity of British engineering talent.”

Racers will benefit from the superior technology and design of Shock Doctor’s Power Dry System collection of rolling luggage, duffels and packs, as well as Power Dry Ultra Gear, Garment and Helmet Bags. The Power Dry System keeps racers protected from potentially harmful bacteria, by eliminating the damp environment where bacteria thrive on equipment and racing suits.

Sadie Wigglesworth, Commercial Manager to Aston Martin Racing, explained what the partnership means to Aston Martin Racing. “It is a real challenge to find a luggage partner who understands the very harsh demands of race team travel. Throughout the racing season, luggage is put through a test of endurance akin to that of the cars at the race track. Furthermore, it needs to be capable of coping with certain technical needs, such as drying systems for technical equipment and protection for delicate items of driver and team wear. Shock Doctor provides an impressive range of products and a great understanding of our environment, all presented in fashion that fits well with the Aston Martin Racing brand”.

“We are proud to provide the world-class Aston Martin Racing team with our outstanding line of custom bags and Power Dry products,” said Patrick Lynch, Motorsport Director for Shock Doctor. “We look forward to a successful relationship with this globally accomplished team whose commitment to exceptional performance matches our own.”

Why you need a custom driving suit. And why they're not as expensive as you think.

2009-03-14T10:37:00.006-04:00

Driving suits are the single most difficult piece of clothing to fit properly. When we go shopping for new clothes, we have general guidelines for buying. We know what size shirt we wear; and we can choose from multitudes of waist/length sizes for pants. But nowhere at Macys do we have to consider the same fitment attributes as a one-piece driving suit.

Why are they so hard to fit? Easy - there are simply too many dimensions on the human body to take into account. And to create an entire line of suits that had sizing options for differing waist/chest/height/torso-length/etc. would take up our entire 12,000 sq/ft warehouse!

Many of our customers are lucky enough to fit into a standard sized racing suit without too many issues. If you're part of this select group, you need not read any further.

But, what about the customer who is 6'5" with long legs? Or 5'8" with a 40" waist? And don't even think about buying an off the rack suit if you have to check the "F" gender box! Well, then a custom suit may be just the answer for you.

In this industry, when the word "custom" is uttered, KA-CHING can typically be heard closely behind. In reality, custom suits are not too far off their off-the-rack counterparts. Take a Sparco Custom Suit for example - the basic Made-to-Measure price is an extra $175.00 on top of the price of the suit. With custom sizing available beginning with the popular "Sparco" Driving Suit ($825.00), a custom built suit can be had for about $1000.00.

And if you're planning lots of fancy embroidery, or have a pink with black polka-dots design sitting in the back of your head, anything is possible with a custom suit - for an extra charge, of course ;)

If you have any other custom suit questions, or want a price quote, call or e-mail us!

NASA Mid-Atlantic's Chris Cobetto models his new Sparco Custom suit

Introducing Team OG Racing!

2009-03-11T16:21:00.008-04:00

We came up with this idea late last year, and tested it on a select group of our loyal customers. Yesterday, we sent out the first mass e-mail regarding this exciting new program - Team OG Racing.

We know that the vast majority of our customers are not lucky enough to bring in thousands of sponsor dollars from Red Bull, Target, Marlboro, etc. We also know that most of you are not full-time race car drivers. In reality, most of us are just regular folks who happen to enjoy driving and competing in cars. Whether you're tearing it up in a formula car, or just going out for a few laps in the family wagon, you are passionate about driving - just like us!

We want to hear about what you're doing. And we know that the most popular way is by reading your exploits in a blog. So we combined the two, and added a little bonus for helping us out - read more below:

Introducing the "Team OG Racing" sponsorship program. This exciting new program allows a select group of loyal OG Racing customers to earn a 15% discount off of all future purchases (see below) while helping promote our company name.

What we are looking for:

OG Racing is searching for ambitious members of the motorsports community that are willing to showcase the OG Racing name in a responsible and professional manner. Future "Team OG Racing" members can come from any enthusiast background, may it be autocross, circle-track, road, drag and every other form of motorsports.

Requirements:

Selected members will be required to keep and regularly update a personal on-line blog detailing their day-in/day-out racing adventures. If the prospective member does not currently operate an on-line blog, one can easily be created at www.blogger.com. The blog must carry links to the OG Racing Blog and official website. Blog content will be moderated by OG Racing staff for illegal activity and must contain family suitable content.

Members will also display the OG Racing name at official events whenever possible via vehicle stickers/graphics or driver apparel.

What you get in return:
After an initial ONE month trial period where your activity is monitored for appropriate content and regular activity, you will receive:

• OG Racing Personal Coupon Code good for 15% off of your future purchases while participating in the Team OG Racing program (may not be combined with any other sale and/or special offers).
• Official OG Racing gear
• Chance to be an official OG Racing product reviewer. Reviewers receive Employee Purchase pricing on selected new merchandise. In return, reviewers will offer constructive feedback to OG Racing and write reviews to be displayed on their blogs.

How to join:
If interested, please send us a short statement detailing why you think you will be a beneficial Team OG Racing member. Send us pictures, videos (please do not attach to e-mails - send us a link), and anything else that helps sum up your motorsports adventures. Please e-mail to: steve@ogracing.com.

*Disclaimer: The "Team OG Racing" program is currently in its trial stages; OG Racing reserves the right to make changes to or cancel this offer at anytime. Coupon code is for PERSONAL USE ONLY and may not be combined with any other sale and/or special offers. All regular shipping charges (including Free Ground Shipping for orders over $100) will still apply. OG Racing will revoke this discount privelage immediately if we feel it is being abused. Unprofessional or unlawful behavior will not be tolerated while participating in the program. Failure to respect these terms will result in a single written warning followed by immediate termination from the program. MOTORSPORTS ARE DANGEROUS. OG Racing will not be held responsible for any injuries or damages sustained while participating in the Team OG-Racing program.

Racepak IQ3 Footage

2009-03-10T17:23:00.003-04:00

Courtesy of Tony Kelly:

TrackVision V2.1 with new Racepak IQ3 Display from Tony Kelly on Vimeo.

This was compiled using the TrackVision software. Trackvision will actually allow you to show a whole slew of gauge styles, and editing options. More on this software in the near future.

By the way - Tony uses a sub-$200 Aiptek HD 720p camera. Not too shabby, huh?

Helmet - HANS Issues

2009-03-10T14:09:00.006-04:00

Interesting forum post regarding Hans Devices VS some Helmet styles. This can probably relate not only to the Hans, but other similarly styled devices available on the current market: Helmet - HANS Issues

Racepak Racing Data Acquisition Systems

2009-03-10T11:51:00.008-04:00

We hinted at it late last year...and now it's finally here! We'll be starting out with 2 Racepak Data Acquisition Systems:

The Racepak IQ3 Logger Dash ($1395):

and the more economically priced G2X Data Recorder ($943.50):

Both are complete, self contained GPS based Data Acquisition units. If you're simply looking for track mapping, both of these are plug and play. The IQ3 is completely self-contained within the dash - what you see is what you get; no extra wires leading to a separate data logger. The G2X is a more traditionally designed system with a bright LED Dash Display and a lightweight and compact centrally stored data logger.

Both come with throttle/RPM sensors (an extra cost accessory on most competing systems) so you're all set to use the included shift lights and gear indicators. Both also are ready to accept other inputs such as oil temp, air/fuel ratios, or vehicle ride height (32 extra inputs for the IQ3, 12 for the G2X - sensors available separately).

Both also connect to your computer in the simplest way possible - SD cards! Simply remove the card, and plug it into the computer. Doesn't get much simpler then that. I've also had a short chance to play around with the included DataLink2 software. It seems extremely straight-forward and user friendly as opposed to the other pieces of data acquisition software I've had a chance play with.

Needless to say, I'm very excited to start playing with this stuff this spring. Everything is very professionally built with actual car connector clips for the wires, and well sealed inputs (read my complaints with most racing aftermarket electronics in my rant on video systems). I wouldn't expect much less - Racepak is owned by MSD Ignitions; a real-to-life "big" company with years of experience in the automotive industry. No flimsy garage-built start-up stuff here. Get this - they even have a complete team of customer support representatives (7-days a week) if the need arises!

Motorsports Video Cameras

2009-02-13T12:54:00.005-05:00

This past year at PRI, it seem that the most popular new product was the in-car camera. Every row of the show had 3 or 4 booths set-up with flashy big-screen TV's tuned into more track-day footage and eager company owners shoving little black boxes in my path. Since that show, I still receive at least a few e-mails a week showing off even more cameras and recorders! What really set me off was one of the more recent devices - the unit seriously looked like a 80's-era Sony Walkman, with buttons that didn't even line up correctly. For ONLY $1600!!!

7 years ago, I decided to buy my first digital camera. It was a Nikon Coolpix 4300. Top of the line 5 megapixel camera for something like $500 camera. The other day, I went shopping for a good pocket-sized camera. Nowadays, a basic digital camera offers well over 5 megapixels, with the newest pocket sized units starting at less then $200! With the average price of motorsports camera systems well over $1000, this got me thinking about what you were really getting with a motorsports branded system.

Here's the lowdown on prices in this industry - most things that we carry are designed for a niche of a niche market. This means that production and sales for any given piece of safety equipment will NEVER reach levels that you may see in the mass market. If the HANS device became a fashion sensation overnight and started showing up at Macy's windows around the world, its price would most likely fall drastically. When you make more of any given item, its production costs will decrease incrementally. So, when you build a camera system that is only marketed to the race market (and can only realistically be used in a vehicle environment) it will never, ever sell as well as, say, a Sony video camera at Sears. We may all think that everyone needs a video camera in their car, but realistically, only a small percentage of the population actually subscribes to the motorsports hobby.

I did some comparing of your typical consumer electronics video camera, and your basic motorsports camera. Most of the pricier motorsports cameras use a bullet camera of some sort. Bullet cameras were not designed for cars - they were initially manufactured for security systems. It just so happens that the same easily mountable and hidden camera that catches shoplifters works great for getting those neat action shots on a moving vehicle. The problem with Bullet cameras is that they limit the recordable resolution of any camera system. Many Bullet Cameras that you see included with motorsports camera systems are manufactured to similar specs and then rebranded with "X" name. They are held to a 640x480 resolution. For comparison, I went to CNET.com and searched for high-rated, flash-card style video cameras. I found a little pocket camera manufactured by Flip that carried a 1280x720 resolution (720p). Price: about $200 depending on who you ask.

With higher resolution available from the consumer electronics pool (ie, better quality picture), then what do you really get when you buy a dedicated motorsports camera? First, most motorsports cameras record to a unit that can be mounted anywhere in the car independent of the camera lens. This allows you to put the weight where you want to in the car, and put the lens in any cool location (like in the grill!) Second, is durability. However, aside from the bomb proof camera (read: VIO), a solid-state recorder is a solid state recorder. (Let me stray from comparison for a moment. If you purchase a video camera for motorsports use, solid state - also known as flash/SD/Compact cards - recorders are the most ideal. Any recorder that uses a hard-drive with moving parts will be damaged by the vehicle vibrations. MiniDV/tape recorders are more durable but tend to be more cumbersome. Solid State is arguably the most durable, with the least amount of moving parts.)

So, short of weather (or bullet) proof cases, you'll get the same amount of durability out of most any solid state recorder. The final advantage you may get is the ability to have multiple lens angles recording to a single unit. Be careful with this since not all multi-lens systems do this the same way. Most will record only to a picture-in-picture file, with the small/large image selection made prior to the recording. I've seen others that split a single image file into 4 sections. Upon reviewing the footage, you cannot select which view you want to be the primary! A good multi-lens system will record to separate files that you can edit later.

So the final question is, Do you have to spend $1000+ to get good video footage into my car? The short answer is, No. Feature-per-feature consumer electronics cameras will always be cheaper then motorsports cameras. The build quality is almost always nicer, and the warranties are probably a lot better. Most, if not all, come with excellent video editing software that is much easier to use then what the smaller motorsports companies are able to develop. You don't even have to worry about syncing to your data acquisition system - Trackvision (Trackvision.net) is an excellent piece of software that will sync to almost any format of vehicle data-acquisition file. And if you want to use a bullet camera for those awesome bug-in-your-face shots, many basic video cameras come with video inputs - add to this a stand-alone bullet camera available from many online sources (about $100).

To summarize, if you absolutely have to have multiple lenses that show-off your fancy footwork alongside with your amazing cornering prowess, then look into the motorsports specific cameras. If you can get past the complex installation, some of the pricier units will record each camera image to a separate file. I would avoid the split-screen multi-cameras systems - these record into a single file, meaning that your great event footage is forever trapped as a split-screen recording.

On the other hand, if you just want a basic camera that points forward, go to your local electronics store and shop for flash video recorders. In short-time, I guarantee you'll be impressed by the options, video quality, and above all else, ability to purchase an extra set of race rubber or that Hans device you've been putting off!

Ford "Police Chase" Commercial

2009-02-12T15:53:00.001-05:00

Another great commercial - everyone loves a car chase!

Sportscar Magazine - Safety First

2009-02-12T11:11:00.004-05:00

Just received the latest issue of Sportscar Magazine; the March 09 issue being the requisite, yearly "safety issue". I was sort of disappointed in the lack of information - a total of 7 pages (including advertisements) and 2 articles were devoted to the subject. First was a comparison of SFI 38.1 Head & Neck Restraints; second being a short Q/A regarding racing suits. Both contained great information, but really, if you're going to headline safety, then headline safety!!

Like I mentioned, the short articles made some good points. I won't comment on the head & neck restraints - the comparison was well thought out, and I think we've all heard enough of Hans, DefNder and the litigation surrounding them all! If you don't have a device already, pick up a copy of this magazine and find out some of the finer points before making your investment.

I would, however, like to add some input to the suit questions raised:

What is the correct fitment of a racing suit? Should it be tight, baggy or somewhere in the middle?:
Chad Dimarco (Sube Sports), Bob Zecca (DI Racing), and Jeremy Curtis (G-Force) concurred that is should be somewhere in between. Recently, I've seen many customers attempt to buy suits with as tight of a fit as possible. Several of these came back a few months later with torn seams. Obviously, this is the economical reason why NOT to buy such a tight fitting suit. If you're trying to make yourself look slim, a gym membership or a pair of running shoes are a much cheaper way to go. Even though tight pants and tight shirts may be the fashion norm these days, they do not extend to race cars!! Tight suits also present quite a safety risk. Testing shows that some of the most severe burns will occur at the knees. Why? Because the fabric of the suit is almost always stretched tight at this point. Part of the effectiveness of a multi-layer suit is not just the extra material; rather it's the pocket of air created between each layer of material. Each pocket creates an insulation point from the heat - by stretching this thin, you remove those insulation benefits.

Too baggy of a suit will cause not only comfort issues, but may hamper getting in and out of the vehicle. If you are not one of those lucky few that happens to fit perfectly into a certain suit size, you will need to choose a size that fits each and every one of your proportions comfortable. Don't suck in your gut to fit in that size 58. Instead, buy a size 60 and deal with the extra material elsewhere, or get a custom suit. We regularly order custom suits through Sparco; the base custom measurement charge is $175 and is available on suits as inexpensive as the Sparco 6.

Is there a benefit to wearing fire-resistant underwear even if the GCR does not require it for your suit?:
As the aforementioned panel of experts all agree, Yes! Here's the deal - if you have an huge phobia of getting burned, call us and we will get you an SFI-20 Drag Racing Suit. These suits are designed for the self-navigated guided missiles that rocket down quarter-mile tracks. They will also give you the longest period before second degree burns occur. However, as they are typically 3x the weight of a traditional suit, they are the last thing you want in the middle of summer! The next best thing is combining underwear with your traditional SFI-5 rated suit to literally add another layer to your ensemble.

One expert went even further explaining the benefits of underwear wicking sweat from your body and the obvious performance benefits of keeping yourself cool. It should be noted that Nomex is not a very good wicking material. It should never be confused as coolmax or some other purpose built wicking material. It's better then nothing, but the best wicking fire-retardant fabric is probably Carmyth.

What's the best method to clean and store my race suit?:
I agree with the article - Dry Clean. Alternately, there are also some chemicals on the market specifically designed to clean Nomex and even increase its effectiveness. Molecule comes to mind. If you insist on washing your suit with any other method, make sure to hand-wash or use a gentle cycle with mild, mild detergents. Sparco includes a cleaning bag with some of their suits - similar bags are available elsewhere in the world of clothing care. Get one of these bags to prevent your delicate Nomex fibers from getting caught in the complex machinery of your washing machine!

The other important piece of advise I saw was airing out your suit after it is used. This goes for ALL of your racing gear. Taking your dirty, sweat soaked laundry and balling it up into the inner recesses of your closet is a fantastic science experiment you are welcome to share with your kids. Be sure to take pictures afterward and send them to the CDC. Air that stuff out - I've had the privilege of installing more then one set of Hans anchors into a mildewy helmets Yes, I wear latex gloves in these cases. And no, don't be offended when I run off to the bathroom to scrub my hands with disinfectant!

Stoptech & OG Racing

2009-02-10T13:50:00.004-05:00

If you didn't already know, Stoptech has teamed up with OG Racing as a distributor for 2009. Things have been a little crazy around here with all of the new products and getting ready for the race season - as such, we haven't had much of a chance to work on our first warehouse stocking order.

But if anyone needs it, we can always ship directly from Stoptech for the current time. Stoptech has assured us speedy drop-ship service. Just give us a call and let us know what you need!

It may be for more personal reasons then naught (my street BMW could use some fancy new eye-candy) but all of us here at OG Racing are pretty excited about this deal.

Lico Motorsports is here!

2009-02-10T13:34:00.003-05:00

Okay - I've been holding off on this announcement for a few weeks now as this new brand trickles into our warehouse. Enough of the product is now here where I can only partially lie about it being in stock (I hate it when shops say they have something only to find out it is un-obtainium!)

So, with much fanfare, we bring you Lico. If you haven't heard, this is a new branch of Sparco that brings more economically priced racing gear with the same high-quality European designs and materials that Sparco is known for.

What do the Italians consider "thrifty"? How about a 3-layer, box-quilt tone-on-tone stitched, SFI/5 certifed suit for $265.00? (Compare that to a 3-layer Proban (no sectioning of fabric) G-Force 505 for $320.00):

DETAILS HERE

Or Sparco Top 3 Shoe (retail $219) clones for only $89.00:

DETAILS HERE

So, take a look around our catalog - Lico has brought something for just about every category. Again, a lot of the inventory is still trickling in; with your patience, we should be able to get you an excellent deal for the 2009 season.

Audi Commercial

2009-02-02T12:57:00.003-05:00

I watched this last night, but apparently was wrapped in mindless Superbowl banter. Didn't realize that this commercial takes a detour through history!

New Fuel Cell Rules (NASA)

2009-02-02T12:13:00.000-05:00

As of January 1, 2009 no new logbooks will be issued for vehicles with a fuel cell, unless the fuel cell is FIA FT3 (or higher) certified.
[This means no more newly built cars with rotary molded cells. However existing rotary molded cells with an FIA FT 3 bladder will be grandfathered.]

As of January 1, 2012 all fuel cells must be FIA FT3 (or higher) certified, regardless of the date of purchase or date of the logbook issuance.
[This is the “sunset” for all rotary molded cells. No more grandfathering.]

Other notes- We do not subscribe to the hypothesis that “any fuel cell is better than no fuel cell.” The stock tank has been crash tested in its location and at least that’s a known factor. When someone installs a fuel cell, it’s possible to create a more dangerous situation because of the location of mounting and the other things around it. Furthermore, bladders do deteriorate. On more than one occasion old bladders have sprung leaks resulting in fires. One car was a total loss. We do not believe that the stock tank deteriorates at anywhere near the rate that a bladder deteriorates. This is not to encourage people to use the stock tank, but rather to answer some questions that have recently come up.

More Here: http://www.nasanortheast.org/fuel_cell.html

Shockdoctor at the 2009 Rolex

2009-01-28T10:03:00.006-05:00

In use at the Daytona 24 hour race!

Product Details Here!

After spending all morning chipping ice off of my car, my soggy gloves are drying on our display model as I type! Great stuff!

HPDE Insurance?

2009-01-27T12:49:00.004-05:00

I wrote on this topic last October, and a reader commented on the availability of HPDE Insurance from Lockton Affinity (read the original post HERE).

I was just reminded about this topic after reading a post on the Bimmerforums website: Trailing arm pocket failure and HPDE insurance

Check out the program details at Lockton Affinity's site: HPDE Insurance Program. I checked out the rate for my BMW at $15,000 and was estimated $97 for the event - not too shabby!

DefNder is here!

2009-01-16T17:12:00.004-05:00

We just received our first shipment of DefNder Restraints:

The nice padded case that comes with it was quite a surprise!

We received a fairly large initial shipment - let us know if you have any questions!

DEFNDER-TEAM-ISSUE-HEAD-AND-NECK-RESTRAINT

New Lower Prices on Hans Devices!

2009-01-15T10:45:00.003-05:00

For 2009, Hans has lowered the pricing on many of their models. As mentioned previously, the mid-range Extra series will no longer be manufactured. Instead, there will only be the entry-level Sport Series, and the lighter-weight Pro Series.

With this change of line-up, the Pro Series now starts at only $1045.00 for both the models with Regular Tethers and Sliding Tethers. The Quick-Disconnect models will be $1080.00.

Hans Pro Model - Click Here

In other Hans Device News, the Sport Series will start at only $645.00 for the models with the LW2 light-weight anchors (Details Here). We should be seeing these early in February and accepting pre-orders now.

OG Racing & NASA Sponsorship

2009-01-13T16:34:00.004-05:00

OG Racing is now the Official Motorsports Safety Equipment Supplier of NASA for 2009. This is a national sponsorship as opposed to the regional, Mid-Atlantic NASA sponsorship we began last year.

So what does this mean? Stay tuned to find out!

NASA (National Auto Sport Association)

DefNder Head and Neck Restraint

2009-01-12T16:44:00.003-05:00

2009 is here to stay, and we're working hard to update our inventory with all the hottest new products!

First up is the DefNder Head and Neck Restraint. We should be seeing these by the end of this week (ETA - January 15); but they are up on the web and ready to order. This new restraint system uses not only traditionally mounted rear tethers, but also incorporates unique side motion control tethers.

The one (and only) model currently available retails for only $549.00.

Order Now!

Shockdoctor Bags

2008-12-19T13:54:00.001-05:00

Here's a preview of the direction Shockdoctor is taking with their 2009 motorsports bags. The new streamlined designs still feature all of the nifty separators for all of your gear. And as an added bonus, these new bags are LIGHT! You'll have to feel it to believe it, but they are the lightest weight gear bags I've ever seen.

Hans Device Sliding Quick Release Tethers and other News

2008-12-18T16:38:00.005-05:00

The biggest news from Hans for 2009 are the new Quick Disconnect Sliding Tether Set. Ever since the Sliding Tethers were released by Hans early 2008, customers have been asking for a Quick Disconnect option. A year later and it's ready! In an ingenious piece of simplicity (in my opinion) the Quick Disconnect unit is connect directly to the helmet - you might remember that the fixed quick disconnect unit used a "broken" tether that attached midway on the tether assembly. The add-on kit was available for trial at PRI and it works as simply as it should. I apparently was too tired to take pictures (9 hours of wandering a trade show will do that to you), but here is the press photo from Hans:

In other news, Hans is also introducing a new, less-expensive tether option for all new Hans Devices. Called the "fixed" tether, this style does away with all quick release tethers and anchor sets and permanently attaches the Device to the helmet. When asked about the awkwardness of this, I was told that a good percentage of device users NEVER separate the two (please 'fess up - does this describe you?) Devices with this option will start around $645 for a Sport model. Again, some press photos:

Both options and retrofit kits should be available January 2009.

Sparco Pro ADV Super Carbon

2008-12-18T14:08:00.001-05:00

Priced at over $5k, we probably won't see too many of these hit the U.S. market. But the technology behind it is still pretty amazing. Yes, it is a full Carbon Fiber shelled Pro ADV racing seat. But it also weighs in at over 40lbs. So what gives? Well, the Super Carbon was manufactured specifically to the FIA's new World Rally specifications; needs to NOT fail when a car cartwheels off a dirt road into a stand of trees at 100mph). So far, this is the ONLY seat that has surpassed these requirements without the need for a back brace.

How does it pass? The weight tells of this seat's overbuilt engineering. It also uses massive mounting bolts (8mm).

Want one? Turn around time is 5-6 weeks. Payment up front, of course ;)

Say Goodbye to Bell's Detend Shield!

2008-12-18T14:02:00.001-05:00

Owners of older Bell helmets with the clunky detent style shields rejoice! Bell is introducing a Shield adapter that allows the use of the newer, SRV style shields with the older Detent style helmets. Installation is direct and does away with the often fragile older pivot kits that Bell used for so many years. Now you can get the same, smooth SRV performance on your older Bell helmet! (And we no longer need to stock 2 trillion different Bell Replacement Shields!!)

The retrofit kit will run $20-30, plus the cost of a replacement Bell SRV Shield. Look for it on our website early 2009!

...and one more Piloti Shoe

2008-12-18T13:57:00.001-05:00

Almost forgot about the new Avus model from Piloti. We probably won't see it until later next year, but I like the clean styling and look. These will probably be priced similarly to the current Prototipos.

More new shoes from Piloti!

2008-12-18T13:54:00.001-05:00

Motowerks - This was a very lightweight (surprisingly so) steel toe boot. We think it would make a great crew shoe. Sugg. Retail $150

New luxury model! The name and price are still up in the air (this was very much a prototype model on display). However, I liked the laceless, slip-on design. The sole also takes a departure from the more traditional Piloti sole. It still has the concepts we've all grown to love (rolled heel, etc.), however, it looks much less clunky making the shoe, in its entirety, look much more high-end.

Piloti Women's line on the way!

And kid's shoes - aren't they "cute"?

We should see the boots early next year. I'd expect arrival of the others by the late spring. Also of note is that, due to driver demand, Piloti is working on a thinner sole for their line of Race Professional shoes. This should bring those models more in line with racing shoes from Sparco, Simpson, etc.

Racing at Summit...In Orlando??

2008-12-17T17:49:00.000-05:00

Here's our very own Jeff Werth racing a Radical at Summit Point. And I quote, "That was the first time I ever flipped a car!"

Another Head and Neck Restraint?

2008-12-17T17:37:00.002-05:00

One of the biggest news bites of this year's PRI show was the introduction of the defNder (let's just call it Defender) Head and Neck Restraint. Similar in design to other Head and Neck Restraints on the market (really, how many ways is there to redesign such a simple device??), the Defender has the added benefit of increased side impact protection. How? You might not be able to see from my great photo skills, but the helmet tether not only secures to the rear of the device, but they also travel vertically to the overbuilt "legs" of the device.

Initial pricing is set at $595 for the basic device (as pictured). The device passes and carries the current SFI 38.1 Head and Neck Restraint rating.

Are those Stoptech Brakes peeking out from under your wheels? Or are you just happy to see me?

2008-12-17T17:33:00.001-05:00

Yes, OG Racing has signed on as a Stoptech distributor. We're feverishly working on getting the billions of part numbers into our system, but we are welcoming any and all orders!

For those of you not familiar with Stoptech, Stoptech is one of the best manufacturers of aftermarket brake kits. All of their systems are nearly plug-n-play, and fully tuned with manufacturer brake bias tuning in mind (yes, unlike many of the other big brake kits out there!) Systems are available for nearly every make and model of car out there - Stoptech's parent company is Centrix, one of the largest automotive part manufacturer/distributors in the U.S. As such, they have access to a wealth of information - if you don't see it for your car, that just means it'll take a little bit longer to build it.

Stay tuned for details on our website; I'm also working on a much improved brake and brake pad ordering system!

But is it sustainable?

2008-12-16T17:27:00.000-05:00

Yep, those are the newest in high-tech racing seats - Wicker!

Lico...by Sparco

2008-12-16T17:21:00.002-05:00

One of the biggest developments for next year is the introduction of Lico by parent company Sparco. A little history - Lico was first started by the Brazilian importer of Sparco. Sparco saw the opportunity in the brand and purchased it. Offered in Europe for the past several years, Lico manufactures suits, gloves, shoes, and underwear using Sparco's high quality principals and offers it at a much more budget oriented price.

How budget? Lico mid-top shoes begin at $69.00. SFI 3.2A/5 suits begin at $265.00. The top end, box quilted, light-weight Lico suit will retail for only $699.00.

We should start seeing the product early January 2009.

MSD Racepak Data Acquisition

2008-12-16T14:13:00.004-05:00

Yes, those sensor connectors are "stackable." Talk about clean wiring!!

This is the first thing that caught our eye at the show - and we're quite smitten. To the point where we're already adding part numbers! Per Racepak's description:

The IQ3 data logger dash is designed to be a complete data center. Contained inside the fully programmable dash is a 32 channel data logger, 512 MB microSD memory card, GPS board and 3 axis G meter. The programmable shift lights are protected from sunlight by a molded shield above the lights, while the low glare LCD display is well recessed in the housing in order to provide viewing in all light conditions.

The rear of the dash contains the connectors for the external GPS antenna, Vnet sensor cable and the Power / Ground / Engine RPM / External Programming Button harness. All sensors transmit their data through a single cable (Vnet) which is routed to the rear of the dash. This eliminates the need for a sensor harness, greatly reducing installation time, complexity and overall weight.

All data is stored in a 512 MB MicroSD memory card, located in the front of the dash between the programmable shift lights. This design insures easy access to the memory card for data download.

Prices start right around $1400 for a basic unit (comes standard with GPS lap tracking, dash, programming, and expandability for up to 32 external sensor inputs.) And all of the top-notch tech support that MSD has to offer!! Available from OG Racing now!

21st Performance Racing Industry Trade Show

2008-12-10T17:43:00.003-05:00

The PRI Trade show (one of the more major motorsports shows of the year) starts tomorrow in Orlando, FL. I'll be down there seeing all the new products and meeting all the new faces. And of course, taking lots of pictures!

So stay tuned for all the latest product news and what to expect for the 2009 season. As always, comments are welcome - how else can we decide what our customers want!

"Life, like racing, isn't simply about going fast"

2008-11-20T14:22:00.004-05:00

I just finished reading The Art of Racing in the Rain, by Garth Stein. Quite a heart warming read for racing enthusiasts and dog lovers alike (although I found my wife skips all the fascinating racing terminology). Mr. Stein creates quite an analogy of life vs. the track, all as seen through the eyes of man's best friend. Oh, and Mr. Stein recently competed in the Mazda Grand Prix of Portland in a Mazda Miata to benefit the Oregon Humane Society and occasionally runs a Spec Miata with the NW SCCA.

Find out more about the book here:
The Art of Racing in the Rain

2009 Grand-Am KONI Challenge Rules released

2008-11-19T12:48:00.002-05:00

We just received some information regarding updates to the 2009 Grand Am rule book. Of particular interest:

Helmet removal systems: We will require all drivers to install a helmet removal system in their helmets for the 2009 race season and beyond. One system called EJECT is sold by Shock Doctor, is very inexpensive, easy to implement, and is similar to the Hats-Off device used by the IRL. There are others available.

Left and Right side nets: Grand Am will require the use of SFI 37.1 Kevlar left and right side nets in all Grand-Am series cars. For seats without lateral head supports the nets should be parallel to longitudinal centerline of car and as close to helmet as possible. For seats with lateral head supports, the installation is similar but the net must be in contact with the head support and attached behind the driver slightly inboard so as to partially wrap around the support. The nets should be installed with some tension. Upper strap of net must be at or above cg of helmet. Caution should be used when purchasing these side impact nets as there are a number of companies offering these types of nets with the SFI 37.1 rating but are not made of Kevlar. Only nets made from Kevlar will be considered compliant. BSR offers a selection of the approved nets. See below for illustrations related to the proper use of these nets.

The entire document may be downloaded HERE.

G-Force 545 Race Suit Price Drop

2008-11-14T17:36:00.004-05:00

G-Force has just announced a price drop for the already economical 545 Racing Suit.

The 545 1-Piece Racing Suit is now $399.99 (Originally $449.99)
The 545 Jacket is now only $229.99 (Originally 259.99)
And the 545 Pants are now only $209.99 (Originally $209.99)

This pricing is effective immediately at www.ogracing.com

Head and Neck Restraint Myths

2008-11-13T13:12:00.003-05:00

We've recently noticed the same question arise more and more regarding Head and Neck Restraint Systems: Can my [INSERT MANUFACTURER HERE] device be used in a car with 3-point belts, i.e a car using the manufacturer's shoulder/lap restraints?

Let's first define "USE". You can use any device in any car - the real question is whether or not it will do anything when the time comes!!

The current answer that we have is inconclusive. To this date, and to the best of myknowledge, there has been NO independent testing that attempts to test or rate ANY Head and Neck Restraint in a setting involving a 3-point belt.

I think that this question has been arising due to drivers wanting a head and neck restraint in any environment. There have also been speculation spreading throughout the web (and from a few manufacturers) that certain devices can be used with 3-point harnesses. Remember that SFI 38.1 testing of these devices uses a typical race-car set-up (5-6 point harnesses, racing seat, etc.). The question to ask is Has this device been tested to the same ratings when used with a 3-point seat-belt?